Cabinets are an essential and practical feature of any kitchen space. They require a great deal of craftsmanship in order to perfect their structure and design. Cabinetmaking draws upon hundreds of years of woodworking. The job of professionals today is to apply those traditions of the trade with modern tools and technology.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in cabinetry, you’ll need to have a good understanding of the types of wood most commonly used in the trade and their practical applications. A good cabinet making school will provide hands-on training in woodworking, teaching you how to identify, select, and shape different kinds of wood.
Here is an overview of the best types of wood to use for crafting kitchen cabinets.
Oak is an Option Those in Cabinet Making School Should Know About
Oak is one of the most popular choices for kitchen cabinets, thanks to its classic beauty and durability. If you’re looking for cabinets that will stand the test of time, oak is a great choice. It is an extremely hard and sturdy wood that comes in a variety of shades–from light to dark brown. Students in cabinet making school will find that oak responds well to both hand and machine tools that are used to cut and shape the wood.
When it comes to the aesthetic of kitchen cabinets, oak tends to be associated with older, traditional models. But woodworkers today are applying new finishes to revitalize its use and create more contemporary designs. Although oak is traditionally stained, advancements in wood paint technology are putting an updated spin on the classic grain surface.
Use Maple for Versatility in Design
Maple is another hard wood option, and one of the most versatile in its uses. Much like oak, Maple is readily available and relatively easy to work with–making it a convenient material for cabinetry. With a smooth finish, this wood comes in colours ranging from almost white to cream. Thanks to its fine grain, you can paint, stain, or varnish this wood with high-quality results. Maple is a great choice for those interested in creating a cohesive aesthetic in the kitchen. The colour and texture of this wood allows you to create traditional, contemporary, or modern cabinetry style. They also vary the door form and finish to match the surrounding design elements.
The Timeless Look of Cherry
If you’re dealing in high-end woodworking projects, you’ll appreciate the timeless, classic look of cherry. On the more expensive side, this wood has a rich grain and vibrant colour, which ages over time to a reddish brown once a stain is applied. Cherry is fairly strong and its dark color reduces the visibility of nicks and scratches, making it a solid choice for practical use in kitchen cabinets. Professionals with cabinet making training will appreciate the relative ease of crafting this wood, as it glues well and takes screws and nails easily.
Find Colour Variety in Walnut
Walnut is a hard wood that offers a great deal of variation in terms of grain and colour–ranging from creamy white to dark brown. Although walnut is less readily available than most woods, it is still relatively straightforward to work with, and only needs a light finish to highlight its beautiful natural colour variations. If you choose, a darker finish will create a more classic look. With its colour range, Walnut is a popular choice for kitchen cabinets, and allows for different styles from traditional, to transitional, to contemporary.
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